Both natural biological processes and environmental contaminants produce rogue molecules called free radicals that are toxic to healthy cells. When you are young, a steady supply of antioxidants neutralizes them before they can harm the fragile myelin sheath that facilitates communication along your nerves.
As you grow older, your antioxidant defenses weaken, while circulation to your peripheral nerves dwindles at the same time. The long nerves serving your feet and hands succumb to oxidative stress without sufficient blood flow to repair the damage, leading to tingling, burning, and numbness.
However, boosting both your antioxidant defense and circulation to your nerves creates the optimal environment to maintain normal nerve sensation as you age.